HI~Arts runs a programme of Audience Development activity and support for the cultural sector, supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the Scottish Arts Council.

Through this work, we aim to increase access to, and participation in, arts events across the Highlands and Islands.  Here are some of our key areas of work:
 

Audience Development Capacity Building (ADCB) Project

This project aims to deliver a range of audience development training, consultancy, resources and practical marketing tools to Highlands & Islands cultural organisations and event promoters in the run up to and throughout Highland 2007, the year Scotland celebrates Highland culture.  Read more ...
 

Online Ticketing

In January 2005, HI-Arts launched thebooth, an online ticket service for Highlands and Islands promoters, venues, festivals and touring companies.  This service is now used by over 100 promoters across the region as a powerful sales and marketing tool.  Read more ...
 

Online Journal & Events Guide

HI-Arts' website is a well-used resource for audiences and the cultural sector alike, and now receives around 5,000 visitors per day from around the globe.  With the region's most comprehensive Events Guide and a professional Arts Journal with daily news, features and reviews, the website provides a key marketing tool for the Highlands & Islands.
 

Conference 2005

The first Audience Development Conference for the Highlands and Islands took place in Inverness on Friday 18 March 2005.  Sessions from the conference are available online in text and audio format.  Read more ...
 

Other projects include:

• Provision of resources such as marketing tip sheets, reference libraries, media contact lists and databases of designers and printers, to assist arts promoters in their marketing.
   
• Direct and hands-on consultancy work with venues, festivals and promoters to address key issues of marketing and audience development.
   
• Training sessions and conferences on audience development issues tailored to the region's specific needs and challenges.
   
• Ongoing support and advice by telephone and email.

Other projects include greater cross-promotion of the region's many arts festivals, awareness-raising campaigns with members of the national press, and family friendly initiatives.

For further details or to find out about consultancy, contact Marcus Wilson, HI-Arts' Audience Development Coordinator, on 0131 208 3004 or email audiences@hi-arts.co.uk.